Mikkel Hansen set a record for the most goals scored in a single men's Olympic handball tournament, netting 61 goals during the 2020 Games. A Danish professional handball player born in Helsingør in 1987, he earned international recognition for his versatility, primarily playing as a left back before transitioning to the centre back and playmaker positions late in his career.
Early Career and International Rise
Beginning his professional journey in Denmark, Hansen secured a championship title with GOG in 2007. He moved to Spain in 2008 to join FC Barcelona Handbol, where he played for two seasons. Upon returning to his home country, he played for AG København, securing two domestic championships before the club folded in 2012. His national team success gained momentum with a gold medal at the 2012 European Championship in Serbia, where he was also named to the tournament's All-Star team.
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After joining the French club PSG Handball in 2012, Hansen spent ten seasons with the team, accumulating numerous domestic trophies including several French Championships and Coupe de France titles. During this period, he solidified his reputation as a primary scorer and playmaker, earning the IHF World Player of the Year award in 2011, 2015, and 2018. His national team contributions remained consistent, leading Denmark to gold at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro and their first-ever World Championship victory in 2019.
Record-Setting Performance and Retirement
At the 2020 Olympic Games, Hansen became the highest-scoring individual in the history of men's Olympic handball with a career total of 165 goals. His sustained impact led to his induction into the EHF Hall of Fame in 2024. Following a final stint with Aalborg Håndbold, where his jersey number 24 was retired, he announced his retirement from professional handball in April 2024. His career concluded with multiple World Championship titles and diverse MVP honors across European and international competitions.
Fast facts
- Born: 1987, Helsingør
- Primary Positions: Left back, Centre back
- IHF World Player of the Year: 2011, 2015, 2018
- Olympic Gold Medals: 2016, 2024
- World Championship Gold Medals: 2019, 2021, 2023
- European Championship Gold Medal: 2012
- Retirement Announced: April 2024
- Citizenship: Kingdom of Denmark
Questions readers ask
How many times was Mikkel Hansen named IHF World Player of the Year?
He received the award three times, in 2011, 2015, and 2018.
Which club retired Mikkel Hansen's number 24 jersey?
Aalborg Håndbold retired his number 24 jersey.
Achievements
- IHF World Player of the Year
- Competed at the 2020 Summer Olympics
- Competed at the 2016 Summer Olympics
- Competed at the 2012 Summer Olympics
- Competed at the 2008 Summer Olympics
